Vietnam, with its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, rich history, and delicious cuisine, is a popular destination for travelers worldwide. If you’re planning a trip to this Southeast Asian gem, you’ll need to obtain a visa before entering the country unless you are from a visa-exempt nation. One convenient option for travelers is the Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA), which allows you to obtain a visa when you arrive at one of the international airports in Vietnam. In this article, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about the Vietnam Visa on Arrival process, eligibility, benefits, and how to apply for it.
What is Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA)?
Vietnam Visa on Arrival is a service that enables international travelers to apply for and obtain a visa when they land at one of Vietnam’s international airports. Unlike traditional visa applications that require submission to an embassy or consulate before traveling, the VOA process is completed online prior to your departure. Once you arrive in Vietnam, you can simply pick up your visa at the airport.
However, the key point to remember is that this option is only available for air travelers arriving in Vietnam. If you’re traveling by land or sea, you’ll need to apply for a visa in advance.
Eligibility for Vietnam Visa on Arrival
Not all travelers are eligible for the Vietnam Visa on Arrival; the visa-on-arrival process is available to nationals of specific countries. Typically, travelers from countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, India, Germany, and many others can use this service.
Before applying for a VOA, make sure that your country of citizenship is eligible for this service. You can check the full list of eligible countries on Vietnam’s official immigration website or the authorized travel agencies that offer VOA services.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Air Travel: You must be entering Vietnam by air, as the VOA service is only available at Vietnam’s international airports.
- Travel Purpose: You must be visiting Vietnam for tourism or business purposes. If you intend to stay for a longer period or for purposes like employment or study, you may need to apply for a different type of visa.
How to Apply for Vietnam Visa on Arrival
The process to apply for a Vietnam Visa on Arrival is straightforward and can be done in a few simple steps. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate through the process.
1. Apply Online
To begin, visit a reliable Vietnam visa agency website and complete an online application form. You will need to provide personal details, passport information, and travel dates. Along with your application, you’ll also need to pay a processing fee for your visa approval letter. The application will ask for the following information:
- Full name, gender, nationality, and passport details
- Date of birth and contact information
- Your expected entry and exit dates from Vietnam
- Purpose of your trip (tourism, business, etc.)
2. Receive the Approval Letter
Once your application is processed, the Vietnam Immigration Department will issue an Approval Letter that allows you to pick up your visa upon arrival. The approval letter is sent to you via email within 2 to 5 working days. Be sure to review it for any mistakes before your trip.
3. Prepare Documents for Arrival
Along with your approval letter, you must prepare a few additional documents:
- A valid passport with at least six months of validity from the date of entry.
- Two passport-sized photos (usually 4×6 cm).
- Visa stamping fee (payable in cash in U.S. dollars or Vietnamese Dong).
4. Arrive at Vietnam’s International Airport
TRANSIT VISA FOR NEW ZEALAND Upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports (such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang), proceed to the Visa on Arrival counter. Present your approval letter, passport, photos, and the visa stamping fee. The immigration officers will process your visa and affix it to your passport.
5. Receive Your Visa
After processing, your visa will be stamped into your passport, and you are free to enter Vietnam.
Benefits of Vietnam Visa on Arrival
- Convenience for Air Travelers: VOA is a perfect option for travelers flying to Vietnam, eliminating the need for pre-travel embassy visits.
- Easy Application Process: Applying online is simple and doesn’t require you to leave your home country. The entire process can be done from the comfort of your computer.
- Availability of Different Visa Types: Whether you are traveling for business or tourism, you can apply for a tourist visa, business visa, or transit visa through VOA.
- Speed: Processing time for a Vietnam Visa on Arrival is typically 2 to 5 business days, which is faster than applying through the embassy.
Things to Keep in Mind
While the VOA is convenient, there are a few things travelers should keep in mind to ensure a smooth entry into Vietnam:
- Pre-approval Letter is Required: You cannot get a visa on arrival without having the approval letter in hand, so make sure to apply well in advance.
- Only Available at Designated Airports: You can only obtain your visa at designated international airports. If you are arriving by land or sea, you will need to obtain a visa in advance from a Vietnamese consulate.
- Processing Fee: Be sure to pay the appropriate processing fee when applying for your approval letter. Additionally, there is a visa stamping fee payable on arrival.
- Legitimate Agencies: Use legitimate visa agencies to avoid scams or delays in processing. Ensure the agency you are using is authorized to offer VOA services.
Conclusion
Vietnam Visa on Arrival is a quick and convenient option for travelers arriving in Vietnam by air. The application process is simple, and it allows you to get your visa upon arrival at the airport, provided you have obtained your approval letter beforehand. It is a cost-effective option for short stays, whether for tourism or business. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can make your journey to Vietnam hassle-free and enjoy the beauty of this fascinating country. Always ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria and have the required documents for a smooth entry.
